John Joseph Cashin

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of John Joseph Cashin of New Waterford, NS, which occurred at the Glace Bay General Hospital on Sunday January 5th, 2014. Born in New Waterford, he was the son of the late John and Catherine (Gillis) Cashin. John grew up in a close and loving family in the tight knit community of Scotchtown. A graduate of Normal (Teacher’s) College and St. Francis Xavier University, he was a much admired and respected teacher, coach, administrator, and community leader. He began his teaching career in Scotchtown in 1952. In 1958, as President, John led the Sydney Local to the historic first signing of a contract by the NSTU in Nova Scotia. He retired as principal at Park Junior High School, Sydney, in 1985. He was a very active and generous contributor to his community. He served his church in many capacities including lector, eucharistic minister and alter server. He was an active member of the New Waterford Credit Union and Co-op. As well, he was active in local politics and served on the NDP provincial Executive. John was especially involved in the Knights of Columbus serving in many capacities including Grand Knight, District Deputy, and Faithful Navigator of the Knights of the Fourth Degree. In addition to being a loving husband, father and grandfather, John was an avid and active outdoorsman and sportsman. Among many pursuits, he enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, baseball, hockey, bowling, horse shoes, bird watching, and playing cards. He directed the New Waterford Bridge Club for many years and achieved the level of Life Master in Bridge. He especially enjoyed time spent with family and friends at his bungalow on the Mira River. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Hattie (Hillier), son David of Sydney, daughters Sheila Haley (Kenneth) of Sydney and Linda Shack (Steven) of Mississauga, and son Joe (Lisa) of Albert Bridge. He is also survived by his grandchildren Ryan, Douglas and Francis (Meghan) Cashin, Matthew and Allison Haley, and Justin, Jenna, and Jillian Cashin, as well as by many nieces and nephews who lovingly knew him as Uncle Johnny. John was predeceased by his parents John Daniel and Catherine (Gillis) Cashin of Scotchtown, and siblings Mary (Sam) Comfort, Agatha (Val) Zorn, Michael (Martha) Cashin, Amelia (Charles) Wagstaff and Catherine (Tom) Cryan. There will be no visitation; cremation has taken place. A mass to celebrate John’s life will be held on Friday, January 10, 2014 at 1 p.m. in the Parish of Saint Leonard with Father Ray Huntley officiating followed by a luncheon at the K.O.C , Plummer Ave. All are welcome. Burial to be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave., New Waterford 862-7500. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Society, the MS Society or a charity of choice. To send online condolences go to: www.mclellanfuneralhome.com